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Ishq (عشق) is an Arabic word that means "love" or "passion." In Islamic mysticism or Sufism, Ishq refers to the intense and passionate love of God. It is the ultimate goal of the Sufi path, and it is seen as the highest form of worship. This love is also extended to the Ahl-alBait and the Imams in the SHIA tradition.
Sufis believe that Ishq is not just an emotion, but also a state of being. It is a complete surrender to God, in which the lover sees nothing but the beloved. Sufis often use the metaphor of a moth being drawn to a flame to describe ishq. Just as the moth is drawn to the flame, even though it knows it will be destroyed, the Sufi is drawn to God, even though it knows it will lose its own ego and identity.
Ishq is not something that can be achieved through one's own efforts. It is a gift from God, and it is bestowed upon those who are sincere on the spiritual path. Sufis believe that Ishq is the only way to truly know God.
Here are some of the characteristics of ishq:
It is intense and passionate.
It is selfless and unconditional.
It is all-consuming.
It leads to a complete surrender to God.
It is a gift from God.
Ishq is a complex and multifaceted concept, but it is essential to understanding Sufism. It is the driving force behind the Sufi path, and it is the ultimate goal of the Sufi seeker.
Here are some of the ways in which Sufis cultivate Ishq:
Through spiritual practices such as prayer, meditation, and dhikr (remembrance of God).
Through the study of the Quran and the Hadith, as well as the writings of Sufi masters.
Through association with righteous people and spiritual guides.
Through service to others and to the community.
Ishq is a lifelong journey, and there is no end to it. The Sufi seeker is always striving to deepen their love for God and to become closer to Him.
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